Category Archives: News

IIT Roorkee Recognized at 10th CII Industrial IP Awards 2024 for Outstanding Contribution to India’s IP Ecosystem

Delhi, IIT Roorkee, December 14, 2024 – The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee has been honoured with the prestigious Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) Intellectual Property (IP) Award 2024, recognizing its outstanding contributions to innovation, IP management, and the commercialization of cutting-edge technologies. This esteemed award highlights the Institute’s leadership in fostering an IP-savvy ecosystem and driving forward India’s technological advancement.

IIT Roorkee’s achievement is a direct result of its robust innovation ecosystem, which seamlessly integrates world-class research, collaboration with industries, and an unwavering commitment to protecting intellectual property. Over the years, the Institute has built a comprehensive infrastructure to nurture innovation, supporting both faculty and students in transforming their ideas into commercially viable technologies.

A significant factor contributing to this success has been the active utilization of various government schemes that have provided crucial support, enabling IIT Roorkee to establish an environment where IP management and technology commercialization are prioritized. The result has been a flourishing ecosystem that fosters the creation of new intellectual properties while also ensuring that these innovations benefit society.

One of the defining accomplishments for IIT Roorkee this year is the record-breaking number of IP filings and granted patents. The Institute has set new benchmarks in IP generation, with a substantial increase in patent applications filed and granted. This success reflects the Institute’s focus on translating research into tangible products and solutions. IIT Roorkee’s faculty and researchers have demonstrated a relentless drive to create pioneering technologies that are not only innovative but also have the potential to address real-world challenges across diverse sectors, including engineering, healthcare, and renewable energy.

In addition to IP filings, IIT Roorkee has made significant strides in the commercialization of its technologies. With a dedicated Technology Transfer and Innovation Cell, the Institute has facilitated numerous collaborations with industry partners, start-ups, and government agencies to bring its innovations to market. This commercialization pipeline has resulted in a growing number of technologies being successfully adopted by industries, contributing to India’s industrial and economic growth. These efforts have been pivotal in ensuring that IIT Roorkee’s research has a meaningful impact on society.

Prof. Akshay Dvivedi, Dean Sponsored Research and Industrial Consultancy said, IIT Roorkee’s efforts in fostering innovation, IP management, and technology commercialization are aligned with India’s vision to become a global hub for innovation and intellectual property. This recognition by CII further solidifies the Institute’s position as a leader in academic and industrial innovation, paving the way for continued success in the years ahead.

Prof. K K Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, said, “We are extremely proud to receive the CII IP Award 2024, which is a recognition of our sustained efforts to create an IP-driven culture at IIT Roorkee. This achievement is a testament to the tireless work of our faculty, students, and staff, who have worked in synergy to bring innovative ideas to life. We will continue to leverage government schemes and collaborate with industry to enhance the commercialization of our technologies and make a lasting impact on society.”

Innovation around affordable home products critical for growth: Experts at national conclave

New Delhi, December 14, 2024: With the home products market poised to reach an estimated INR 3.50 lakh crore, industry leaders at a national industry conclave called for measures to address the affordability gap in energy-efficient and high-quality products. They also applauded the rising aspirations of Indian consumers, and how the industry has kept pace by providing luxury items at an affordable price range.

Themed ‘Identifying Growth Opportunities for Home Products’, the conclave organised by Metrix Research & Analytics, brought together business leaders and innovators to deliberate on the future of this segment, and how imperative it is for the industry to align itself with the changing needs and aspirations of India’s vast consumers’ landscape.

In his keynote address, Vipul Roongta, MD & CEO, HDFC Capital Advisors Ltd., highlighted India’s demographic shift and the growing middle class, many of whom are yet to purchase their first home. This presents a massive opportunity for growth in the housing market. Roongta stated, “India is in the middle of a housing boom, largely in the affordable segment. The middle-income consumer segment desires homes and home products that reflect modern aspirations whilst remaining affordable. Bridging this gap is essential to drive the next wave of growth. By offering energy-efficient, affordable solutions and positioning them optimally, the industry can not only meet the evolving needs of the consumer but also contribute to sustainability.”

Leaders also reflected on the macro economic trends and its bearing on the home products industry. Vivek Chhacchi, Managing Partner at CX Partners, highlighted the significant role of the government’s planned capital expenditure. The government has budgeted ₹11 lakh crore for capital expenditure this year, representing 42% of the total budget. As of October, only a small portion of this amount has been spent. However, with the government set to increase spending over the next five months, there is an expectation that the economy will pick up pace as a result. He further elaborated that the government’s finances are in good shape and the infrastructure projects will accelerate, giving a momentum to the industry.

The conclave shed light on trends, including rapid urbanisation, sustainability, and the integration of technology in home products. Venkatesh Vijayaraghavan, MD & CEO of TTK Prestige, discussed the ongoing shifts in consumer habits, particularly in relation to the growing hybrid state of work and life. “The rise of e-commerce and awareness on health and sustainability are reshaping consumer preferences, reflecting a paradigm shift where convenience, functionality, and digital access are at the forefront, opening new growth avenues for the home products industry.” Similarly, Puneet Dhawan, MD of LedVance, highlighted how advancements in LED lighting are driving consumers shift towards sustainability in the home products sector. Mohit Narula, MD of Ariston Group India, added, “As awareness of environmental issues continues to rise. consumers are becoming more discerning, placing greater emphasis on quality, energy efficiency, and sustainability when choosing home products.”

Ejaz Hoda, Director & CEO of Metrix Research & Analytics, emphasised the paradigm shifts that are shaping consumer preferences, stating, “Aesthetic appeal and health consciousness are likely to drive consumer preferences in India’s home products market while technology will remain at the heart of innovation.”

Mathew Job, Executive Chairman at Watertec India Pvt. Ltd., emphasised the critical importance of innovation in driving growth, remarking, “Innovation can impact growth and create value in many different ways. ” He also stressed the need for businesses to have appropriate metrics in place to ensure success of innovation.

Drawing parallels with the evolution of tires and telephones, Vivek Yadav, Executive Vice President & Switchgear Business Head, Havells India Ltd., said, “From the first phone call in 1876 to 1.4 billion mobile phone users today, these breakthroughs have reshaped industries. Just as innovation overcame significant hurdles in the past, it continues to be the key to addressing the evolving demands of today’s fast-paced world.”

With innovation at its core, the conclave also addressed the intersection of technology and sustainability. Pradyumna Poddar, Chairman at IFMA and President at Fans BU, Usha International Ltd., noted “It’s essential to find a balance between cutting-edge technology and affordability, so consumers feel the value proposition is worth the price.” Technology is reshaping consumer expectations, and sustainability is no longer optional. By addressing these elements head-on, the industry can create a future-ready industry that aligns with the values of eco-conscious consumers.

The idea of ‘premiumization of luxury with affordability’, bringing high-end features to mainstream audiences, was another core theme that was discussed. Leaders advocated for positioning products that combine premium quality with regular price points, creating opportunities to serve aspirational consumers. On account of holistic growth to strategy development, Sameer Anjaria, President, Standard Electricals, Havells India Limited, expressed, “Indian consumers are increasingly looking for avenues to express their individuality in their home décor. This need for uniqueness combined with a clear trend towards smart spending drives positioning. When evaluating the key parameters and influences for any organisation, it is crucial to consider these consumer drivers and balance it with an organisation’s internal parameters like technical and manufacturing ability.”

Dinesh Aggarwal, an industry veteran, former Joint MD at Panasonic Electric Works, India and till recently CEO of RR Kabel Ltd noted, “Metrix Research & Analytics has been a reliable partner for businesses, offering critical insights and market intelligence. As we tackle new challenges like higher consumer expectation from ease of availability, product innovation and more value from the offering, Metrix is well-equipped to guide the industry in navigating these complexities.”

The conclave saw the presence of several prominent leaders from the home products industry including Saurabh Goel, Executive President, Havells; Dr. Rajbir Singh, Founder of Value Centria; Shankaranarayan V, Sr. Director & Head of Product & Marketing – Consumer Business, Signify Innovations India Limited; Rakesh Chahar, Director, Sheela Foam Ltd; Sriram Rangarajan, EVP, Consumer Electrical and SBU Head, CG Power and Industrial Solutions Ltd; among others.

Satyajit Tripathy Confirms Bill for 100% Foreign Ownership in Insurance Sector Pending Parliament Approval

Mumbai, 14 December 2024: “Insurance sector is growing at 15 to 16 percent and will grow further as a bill to allow 100% foreign ownership in companies is awaiting to be placed in the parliament. The sector is not just a pillar of financial stability but also a catalyst for economic growth and social security. The task before us is to navigate the challenges, seize the emerging opportunities and align with the nation’s vision of a vibrant and sustainable financial ecosystem.” said Shri Satyajit Tripathy, Member- Distribution, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India at 16th Global Insurance Summit and Awards event organised by ASSOCHAM.

“At 3.8% of GDP and a density of US$95, India’s insurance penetration is lower than global average due to limited awareness and gap in up-skilling employees and education. The increasing frequency of natural disaster highlights the urgent need for comprehensive catastrophic insurance product and risk pools. We must develop underwriting capacity to write those risks and prevent those underwriting challenges going abroad with higher pricing. Capacity for underwriting higher complex industrial risks, satellites, marine risks and the emerging risks in chemical industries and the attendant complexities need to be developed quickly” said Mr Tripathy.

“The contribution of Bimaru states to the GDP are growing significantly. Insurers when device products used to avoid such states leading to concentration of intermediaries in a few pockets. This leads to the question of renewing licenses of insurers if the policies are not reaching to the people for which it is devised. The regulator’s job is not to give license and renew it year after year.” he added.

Speaking at the event, Girija Subramanian, Co-Chairman, Assocham National Council for Insurance, and CMD, New India Assurance Co Ltd., said, “Insurance sector is now one of India’s sunrise industries, which is also one of the most competitive and dynamically evolving industries today. While the sector is poised for a major transformation, economic growth and expanding middle class, rich demographic dividend innovation and regulatory support is driving the insurance market growth today. Additionally, the infusion of capital and expertise from global players can bolster the industry’s capacity to adopt advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and data analytics for risk assessment, claims management and customer engagement.”

“The Bhima Vahak initiative from IRDAI is a welcome move that will be one of the largest employment generators bringing out the entrepreneurial side of the youth and thereby offering excellent growth opportunities while contributing to the growth of the nation,” added Subramanian.

From growth prospective, India’s insurance sector is becoming a very hot destination for investors and promoters. “I think we are having a brilliant opportunity right now. India is shining, and we’re very happy to be part of it. Delving into the theme, India’s Insurance Vision: Challenges and Way Forward, I will in fact rephrase it, seeing opportunities, challenges and way forward,” said Anuj Mathur, Chairman, Assocham National Council for Insurance, and MD & CEO, Canara HSBC Life Insurance Co Ltd.

“India is poised to become a $ 45 trillion economy by 2047. Insurance plays a pivotal role, not merely a safeguard against uncertainties, but as catalyst for growth resilience, and empowerment” added Mathur.

On the sector witnessing technology disruption, G Srinivasan, Advisor, Assocham National Council for Insurance, and MD & CEO, Galaxy Health and Allied Insurance Co Ltd., said, “Today there are a large number of insurtech changing the way insurance is being done. There has been a lot of positive disruption and these companies need to be encouraged. Technology as an enabler of reaching out to people, improving customer experience, improving the “customer service is going to gain importance..

Sridhar Narayan, Chief Business Officer, Perfios Software Solutions while addressing the summit said, “There is an unprecedented and phenomenal opportunity for facilitation and greater penetration of insurance products in the country. The opportunity is there because the insurance regulator, insurance companies and technology providers have come together. The use of InsureTech is also playing a big role from consumer, insurance companies and insurance aggregator’s perspective.”

Mr Rajiv Gupta, Co-Chairman, ASSOCHAM National Council for Insurance and President, PB Fintech Ltd (Policy Bazaar & Paisa Bazaar) has given the vote of thanks and highlighted the potential of technology to drive a more inclusive insurance sector for economic growth and societal progress.

ZEE Entertainment Announces Exciting New Agency Premier League T20 Ahead of ILT20 Season 3

New Delhi, 14th December 2024: Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL), the official broadcaster of the DP World International League T20, is set to engage prominent media agencies with its inaugural Agency Premier League T20, which will be held in Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai. The Bengaluru leg will be graced by popular Kannada actor, director, and television presenter Ramesh Aravind. The multifaceted star, whose iconic Kannada talk show Weekend with Ramesh is one of the many attractions on Zee5, will provide a thrilling start to the tournament with his presence. This unique trade marketing initiative is designed to promote the third edition of ILT20 among media professionals through an engaging platform. The league will start with Bengaluru on 16th December, followed by Delhi on 18th December, and culminating in Mumbai on 20th December.

The Bengaluru leg will see spirited participation from prominent agencies, including Group M fielding two teams, as well as Dentsu, Havas Media, Initiative and Madison each competing with one team. Following this, the Delhi edition will feature teams from OMD, Havas, IPG, Group M, Publicis and Dentsu. The Mumbai event will host an equally competitive line up with Wavemaker, Starcom, Madison World, DBB Mudra Max, Essence Mediacom and Mindshare Fulcrum.

Reflecting on the league, Mr. Ashish Sehgal, Chief Growth Officer – Digital & Broadcast Revenue, Zee Entertainment Enterprise Limited, said, “The Agency Premier League T20 reflects Zee Entertainment’s commitment to fostering meaningful engagement and pursuits with our trade partners, including the media. Cricket unites India, and this league brings the excitement of ILT20 closer to the media fraternity while celebrating the unifying spirit of the game. Through this tournament, our aim is to create an innovative and immersive experience that resonates with cricket fans across the globe.”

The month-long third edition of DP World ILT20 will begin on 11 January 2025, with the finals slated to take place on Sunday, 9 February 2025. Cricket fans can watch this action-packed tournament on ZEE’s most widely distributed and viewed 15 linear TV channels: &Pictures SD, &Pictures HD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Anmol Cinema 2, Zee Action, Zee Biskope, Zee Zest SD, Zee Cinemalu HD, Zee Telugu HD, Zee Thirai, Zee Tamil HD, Zee Kannada HD, Zee Zest HD, &Flix SD and &Flix HD. It’s also free to view on one of India’s leading OTT platform – ZEE5. The syndicate broadcast partners around the world will be announced in the coming days.

Earlier this year, ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) reported that the league’s second season reached 221 million viewers and with an aim to capture a viewership of 230-million for the upcoming season, ZEE will expand its reach by including South Indian channels, offering a month-long cricket carnival experience.

The channel’s extensive distribution strategy ensured widespread accessibility in India and across the globe. With a notable 46% share of female viewership and 55% share of youth viewership, the league’s broad appeal in India underscores its status.

Healthcare Leaders Unite at AHPI’s Consortium to Support a TB-Free Uttar Pradesh

Bengaluru, December 14, 2024: Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri Yogi Adityanath officially launched Kumbh Sah’AI’yak, the first-ever AI-powered chatbot for Mahakumbh on Friday, 13th December. This innovative digital companion serves as a free 24/7 guide, offering navigation assistance, and cultural insights tailored to each visitor’s journey. Krutrim will deliver cutting-edge hosted open-source LLM services for the chatbot.

Bhavis

Bengaluru, December 14, 2024: Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Hon’ble Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Shri Yogi Adityanath officially launched Kumbh Sah’AI’yak, the first-ever AI-powered chatbot for Mahakumbh on Friday, 13th December. This innovative digital companion serves as a free 24/7 guide, offering navigation assistance, and cultural insights tailored to each visitor’s journey. Krutrim will deliver cutting-edge hosted open-source LLM services for the chatbot.

Bhavish Aggarwal, Founder, Ola said: “Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of taking Mahakumbh digital is a remarkable step towards blending India’s rich traditions with cutting-edge technology. Krutrim is honoured to contribute to this historic feat with the launch of Kumbh Sah’AI’yak, a one-stop AI-powered solution at your fingertips. With this innovation, we celebrate the convergence of heritage and progress, while remaining steadfast in our commitment to driving India’s journey towards digital empowerment and technological independence, fueled by our investments in AI, chip designing, and cloud infrastructure.”

Kumbh Sah’AI’yak is a flagship initiative under the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision for a Digital Mahakumbh, demonstrating the transformative potential of technology to enhance inclusivity, sustainability, and the overall spiritual experience. It also sets a benchmark for large-scale public gatherings globally, combining tradition with innovation.

An initiative of the Government of Uttar Pradesh, Kumbh Sah’AI’yak has been developed by the Prayagraj Mela Authority and UPDESCO, in close collaboration with Samagra as the anchor partner.

Playing a critical role in the product’s success, Bhashini is the official language translation service partner, while Krutrim is delivering its cutting-edge hosted open-source LLM services. PNB has provided CSR support for the technology infrastructure, while the Gates Foundation has contributed philanthropic support for the product development.

The Kumbh Sah’AI’yak app is designed to serve crores pilgrims and ensures real-time, uninterrupted responses. Supporting Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Malayalam, Urdu, Gujarati, Punjabi, Kannada and Bengali, the chatbot offers a user-friendly interface with clickable options, voice commands, and media-enriched content.

The platform allows the pilgrims to easily navigate the Mela area, offering guidance on various topics such as the history, rituals, and significance of Maha Kumbh, travel and accommodation options, and key attractions around Prayagraj. Additionally, with strong security measures in place to ensure privacy and prevent misinformation, the chatbot offers a seamless, safe, and enriching experience for all attendees.

The launch of Kumbh Sah’AI’yak marks a significant milestone in Krutrim’s mission to boost India’s AI capabilities. At Ola’s flagship event, Sankalp 2024, Krutrim unveiled its ambitious AI and Cloud roadmap, reinforcing India’s growing leadership in AI innovation. The company announced the first family of chips called Bodhi for AI; Sarv for General Compute; and Ojas for Edge. The company will design and produce India’s first AI silicon chip by 2026 that is custom-built for complex AI workloads. Krutrim will also be launching Bodhi 2 by 2028. It announced strategic partnerships with Arm and Untether AI to establish its firm footing in silicon technology by 2026.

To supercharge innovation in India, Krutrim also announced over 50 new services on Krutrim Cloud making it ready for most applications needed by Indian developers. The infrastructure services include Virtual Machines (VMs), Cloud Storage, state-of-the-art security measures for data protection and cutting-edge observability features for precise data monitoring. Additionally, the AI cloud services announced were AI Pods to enable low-cost access to best-in-class GPUs, AI studio for building compound AI applications, Model catalog with latest LLMs and vision models, and now code/low code training, finetuning, inference and model evaluation capabilities.

h Aggarwal, Founder, Ola said: “Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of taking Mahakumbh digital is a remarkable step towards blending India’s rich traditions with cutting-edge technology. कृत्रिम is honoured to contribute to this historic feat with the launch of Kumbh Sah’AI’yak, a one-stop AI-powered solution at your fingertips. With this innovation, we celebrate the convergence of heritage and progress, while remaining steadfast in our commitment to driving India’s journey towards digital empowerment and technological independence, fueled by our investments in AI, chip designing, and cloud infrastructure.”

Kumbh Sah’AI’yak is a flagship initiative under the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s vision for a Digital Mahakumbh, demonstrating the transformative potential of technology to enhance inclusivity, sustainability, and the overall spiritual experience. It also sets a benchmark for large-scale public gatherings globally, combining tradition with innovation.

An initiative of the Government of Uttar Pradesh, Kumbh Sah’AI’yak has been developed by the Prayagraj Mela Authority and UPDESCO, in close collaboration with Samagra as the anchor partner.

Playing a critical role in the product’s success, Bhashini is the official language translation service partner, while कृत्रिम is delivering its cutting-edge hosted open-source LLM services. PNB has provided CSR support for the technology infrastructure, while the Gates Foundation has contributed philanthropic support for the product development.

The Kumbh Sah’AI’yak app is designed to serve crores pilgrims and ensures real-time, uninterrupted responses. Supporting Hindi, English, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Malayalam, Urdu, Gujarati, Punjabi, Kannada and Bengali, the chatbot offers a user-friendly interface with clickable options, voice commands, and media-enriched content.

The platform allows the pilgrims to easily navigate the Mela area, offering guidance on various topics such as the history, rituals, and significance of Maha Kumbh, travel and accommodation options, and key attractions around Prayagraj. Additionally, with strong security measures in place to ensure privacy and prevent misinformation, the chatbot offers a seamless, safe, and enriching experience for all attendees.

The launch of Kumbh Sah’AI’yak marks a significant milestone in Krutrim’s mission to boost India’s AI capabilities. At Ola’s flagship event, Sankalp 2024, Krutrim unveiled its ambitious AI and Cloud roadmap, reinforcing India’s growing leadership in AI innovation. The company announced the first family of chips called Bodhi for AI; Sarv for General Compute; and Ojas for Edge. The company will design and produce India’s first AI silicon chip by 2026 that is custom-built for complex AI workloads. Krutrim will also be launching Bodhi 2 by 2028. It announced strategic partnerships with Arm and Untether AI to establish its firm footing in silicon technology by 2026.

To supercharge innovation in India, Krutrim also announced over 50 new services on Krutrim Cloud making it ready for most applications needed by Indian developers. The infrastructure services include Virtual Machines (VMs), Cloud Storage, state-of-the-art security measures for data protection and cutting-edge observability features for precise data monitoring. Additionally, the AI cloud services announced were AI Pods to enable low-cost access to best-in-class GPUs, AI studio for building compound AI applications, Model catalog with latest LLMs and vision models, and now code/low code training, finetuning, inference and model evaluation capabilities.

Cambridge Strengthens Mission to Prepare Learners for the Future with New Integrated Learning and Assessment

National, 14 December’24 – To equip learners with essential future skills for a competitive global landscape, Cambridge University Press & Assessment has launched its Integrated Learning and Assessment (ILA) programme recently. This programme is designed to provide a holistic English Language learning experience for students in grades 1-8. ILA joins other Cambridge future skills initiatives like Cambridge Climate Quest and Young Pioneers, that equip learners to develop skills for a globalised world.

The new ILA programme, aligned with national (NCF 2022-23) and international (CEFR) standards, provides a cohesive English language learning experience for students in grades 1–8. ILA charts a learning journey that shifts the focus from assessment of learning to assessment for learning and promotes holistic language acquisition and LSRW (listening, speaking, reading writing) skills development. It integrates curriculum-aligned content with international standards to ensure thorough skill development and evaluation.

India has a substantial skills gap, with the 2024 Economic Survey showing that only 51.25% of young people are employable. Within this larger skill gap, there persists the need to develop English proficiency to conquer global opportunities. India is witnessing an all-time high demand for overseas education, with a record 1.33 million Indian students pursuing higher education abroad in 2024, according to data from the Ministry of External Affairs. Proficiency in English has emerged as a critical criterion for these students to secure admission to prestigious international universities and their careers. This initiative aligns with industry demands and workforce trends to navigate and excel in tomorrow’s economy.

Arun Rajamani, Managing Director, Cambridge University Press & Assessment, South Asia said: “The changes underway with NEP 2020 are a positive step, and the government’s ongoing initiatives to impart skills are encouraging. Cambridge has always emphasised future skills, and our learner attributes are the cornerstone of our curriculum. While working with government initiatives like NSDC and TNSDC, we realised that the focus must start at the core level to effectively bridge the skills gap and enhance employability. With ILA, we are supporting the development of essential English language skills at the foundational level in schools across the country.”

Aligned with the National Curriculum Frameworks 2022 and 2023, NEP, as well as the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR), this programme charts a learning journey that integrates both national and international educational standards that ensures holistic education to thrive in a global environment. This practice-based solution is designed to empower learners to enhance their English language skills in a day-to-day context.

“The Integrated Learning and Assessment Solution – Level-up Vantage, is the most innovative solution available with schools to support superior language learning with a clear focus on skill building. This practice-based solution shifts classroom learning from traditional tasks to skill-driven knowledge. Partner schools can now support their CBSE/ICSE Curriculum along with meeting international CEFR benchmarks for language learning. It further supports government’s efforts to close the skills gap. By addressing challenges related to balancing subject knowledge and internationally benchmarked skills, this curriculum-based approach better engages learners and aligns their interests with the development of both subject understanding and essential skills,” said Arunachalam TK, Regional Director (English) – South Asia, Cambridge University Press & Assessment.

Exposure to a uniquely diverse range of texts prepares learners for future success, particularly for competency-based assessments at the Board level. The Practice Books also provide targeted preparation for the Cambridge English Qualifications. Under ILA, classroom learning focuses not just on traditional tasks but also on skill-driven knowledge. It focuses on bridging the gap between in-classroom and at-home learning with language learning activities. The reinforcement takes place through CGO access and access to the CEC pages at home. Learning outcome checklists are provided to facilitate the ongoing assessment and enhancement of teaching and learning effectiveness. They enable educators to monitor learner progress and adjust instructional strategies as needed. Ready-made competency-based assessments are available to streamline the evaluation process and provide a clear picture of student mastery of key skills and knowledge.

Cambridge’s future skills initiative(s) aim to equip learners with essential skills for the future, focusing on communication, entrepreneurship, and climate literacy. The Young Pioneers programme (grades 7-10) combines curriculum-based learning with masterclasses, mentorship, and projects to foster innovation and entrepreneurial skills. Complementing this, Cambridge Climate Quest is designed to create climate awareness, literacy, and action among young learners, particularly students in Grades 8 to 12 and integrates climate education across various subjects, emphasising real-world applications and grassroots action.

CMD of IREDA Calls on ICMAI to Strengthen Leadership in Financial and Corporate Governance at CMA Achievers Meet

New Delhi, 14th December 2024

The Institute of Cost Accountants of India (ICMAI) hosted the “CMA Achievers’ Meet: Vision 2030” at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi with Shri Shripad Yesso Naik, Hon’ble Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy as Chief Guest. Dr. Jayanta Kumar Roy, Hon’ble Member of Parliament, also graced the event. Shri Pradip Kumar Das, CMD, IREDA, participated as Special Guest and outlined a transformative vision for ICMAI’s role in India’s economic future.

In his address, Shri Das urged ICMAI to position itself as a ‘CEO & CFO resource center of India,’ emphasizing strategic supply-side interventions. “Modernizing the curriculum to align with global standards is crucial,” he stated. “Incorporating emerging areas such as digital costing, artificial intelligence, ESG, export accounting and global fundraising into the syllabus will prepare professionals for evolving industry demands.”

He also recommended fostering interpersonal development by partnering with executive coaches. Highlighting demand-side interventions, Shri Das called for stronger corporate partnerships to design industry-relevant programs and certifications. “Embracing Artificial Intelligence and advanced analytical tools can empower CMAs to deliver innovative cost management solutions, crucial for India’s sustainable growth,” he added.

Shri Das emphasized the critical role of renewable energy, environmental sustainability and energy security in realizing the Government of India’s vision for a developed India (Viksit Bharat) by 2047. He said, “A greener economy, driven by a holistic approach, not only meets the nation’s energy demands but also addresses the urgent challenges of climate change and resource conservation. Together, we can achieve the vision of a Viksit Bharat by 2047.”

ICICI Prudential Life and RGA Unveil First-Ever Life Insurance Product for Women’s Health Ailments

ICICI Prudential Life Insurance has launched ICICI Pru Wish, a first-of-its-kind health product catering to women-specific critical illnesses and surgeries. Developed in collaboration with Reinsurance Group of America (RGA), this product addresses unique health challenges faced by Indian women.

ICICI Pru Wish offers an instant payout of up to 100% of the health cover amount upon diagnosis of critical illnesses such as breast cancer, cervical cancer, uterine cancer, and heart diseases. Unlike traditional plans that reimburse costs, this product provides lump-sum payouts, offering customers flexibility in managing their treatment and financial obligations.

Addressing concerns about rising premiums, ICICI Pru Wish offers premium guarantees for up to 30 years. Additionally, customers can avail a premium holiday for up to 12 months during the policy tenure, providing financial flexibility during challenging times.

Optional Coverage for Maternity and Newborn Care: The product also includes an option to cover maternity-related complications and newborn congenital illnesses, further addressing the unique health needs of women.

Mr. Amit Palta, Chief Product and Distribution Officer, ICICI Prudential Life Insurance, said, “ICICI Pru Wish is the life insurance industry’s first health product addressing women-specific ailments. It empowers women to be financially prepared by offering a lump sum payout to manage medical emergencies. With its unique features like guaranteed premiums and multiple claim options, we aim to address the critical insurance needs of this segment.”

Mr. Sunil Sharma, CEO, Reinsurance Group of America, India, added, “We are excited to collaborate with ICICI Prudential Life Insurance on this pioneering product designed to address the unique health needs of Indian women. This partnership highlights our shared commitment to offering innovative, customer-centric solutions.”

Key Features of ICICI Pru Wish:

· Instant Lump-Sum Payouts: Unlike traditional plans that reimburse costs, ICICI Pru Wish provides an immediate lump sum upon diagnosis, offering flexibility in managing treatment and finances.

· Guaranteed Premiums: Premiums remain unchanged for up to 30 years, addressing concerns about rising costs.

· Premium Holiday: A 12-month break from premium payments is available during the policy tenure, offering financial relief when needed.

· Optional Maternity and Newborn Care: Covers maternity-related complications and congenital illnesses in newborns, addressing unique health needs of women.

· Flexibility for Multiple Claims: Enables customers to make multiple claims for certain medical conditions, ensuring comprehensive coverage.

IHM Hyderabad Hosts a Grand Christmas Luncheon as Students Embrace the Holiday Spirit

Hyderabad, 14th December 2024: The Institute of Hotel Management (IHM) Hyderabad, a prestigious Central Government institute with a legacy of over 50 years and consistently ranked among India’s finest by leading hotel chains, hosted a spectacular Christmas Gala Lunch, today at its DD Colony campus. The festive celebration marked the joyous spirit of Christmas while ushering in the New Year with grandeur and cheer.

Adding to the grandeur, Executive Chefs from 5-star hotels, renowned stand-alone restaurants, Area Directors (H.R.), and Training Managers from leading hospitality brands joined the students in the celebrations. This unique gathering provided a platform for interaction and inspiration, making it a memorable occasion for all attendees.

The festive celebration showcased the exceptional culinary talents of IHM’s budding chefs, who presented a lavish spread featuring Christmas classics like Roast Turkey and Stollen, alongside international delights such as Hummus Mezze and Coq au Vin. This vibrant event offered an invaluable opportunity for the aspiring chefs to interact with Hyderabad’s esteemed chef fraternity, gaining priceless insights into the culinary profession and glimpses into a promising future.

The institute was transformed into a festive wonderland, with handcrafted ornaments, wreaths, and mistletoes adorning every corner, creating a truly magical atmosphere. To heighten the holiday spirit, the in-house band FLUTE captivated guests with enchanting Christmas carols, filling the air with joy and warmth.

Mr Sanjay K. Thakur, Principal, IHMH; speaking on the occasion said, The Institute of Hotel Management is the only central government institute in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh teaching hospitality and hotel administration. This college is celebrating 52 years of its existence, with alumni across the globe. IHMH is celebrating Christmas festivities amidst more than thirty prominent Chefs from 5-star, 4-star hotels and independent restaurants. The students prepared more than 35 dishes, the Chefs who are guests today, will evaluate the preparations by the budding chefs and share their valuable insights and tips for the students. This enables our students to be job ready. There is a general concern about rising unemployment among youth, but the students of IHMH have at least 3 to 4 job options through campus placement by the time they leave the institute. Unemployment is not a concern for hotel management graduates, they get placements in airlines, cruise liners, fast food chains, apart from the jobs in star hotels. In Hyderabad itself there are umpteen job opportunities with the number of 5-star hotels alone rising from 1 in 1980s to 18 today and more coming in. Many of our alumni have ventured to be entrepreneurs providing jobs for others, staring restaurant chains, managing healthcare institutions in UK and USA, there are some who have become civil servants from among our students. The CM of Jammu and Kashmir is a hotel management graduate, Actor Akshay Kumar is a hotel management graduate, so our students are excelling in various streams of professions. We offer 3 years graduation and also have one and half year program for food production, six months program for bar tending, bakery products programs etc. We have two to three months ‘Hunar se rozgar tak’ program sponsored by Government of India for students from economically deprived sections who can’t afford to pay fee, with no educational fee, free accommodation, dress and food, there is enormous demand for such skilled students from the industry. We conduct ‘Hunar se rozgar tak’ program even in Districts.

Ms Rachna Agashe, Head of Department, IHMH; said, we give 100% placement guarantee for our graduates, with over forty companies coming to us every year for placements, in fact many students get 4 to 5 job offers. The cut off starting salary offered is a minimum of Rs 3 lakhs and more per annum for these graduates.

Additionally, Celebrity Chef Harpal Sokhi, esteemed mentor and guide of IHM-Hyderabad, was unable to attend the Christmas Luncheon due to unforeseen changes in his schedule. However, he extended his warm wishes and shared an inspiring motivational message with the students and distinguished guests. As a thoughtful gesture, Chef Sokhi also sent copies of his book, The Biryani Leader, for the attendees. The book offers a unique perspective on leadership and management, drawing parallels with the art of cooking biryani, and provides valuable insights on effective strategies, preventing burnout, and nurturing workplace ethics.

This event was a delightful fusion of culinary excellence and the cheerful spirit of the season, making it an unforgettable celebration that resonated with the true essence of Christmas.

Millet-Based Edible Straws Developed by IIT Roorkee Researchers Offer Sustainable Alternative

14 December 2024 | Roorkee, India: In a remarkable innovation, researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) have created edible straws made from barnyard millets, offering a healthier and more sustainable alternative to plastic and paper straws. This effort, led by research scholar Miss Tejaswini Dhanaji Patil under the guidance of Prof. Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad from the Functional Food Packaging Lab, Paper Technology Department, addresses two critical challenges: reducing plastic waste and offering a safer, eco-friendly option for everyday use.

While paper straws have become a popular alternative to plastic, recent studies have shown that they may contain harmful chemicals known as PFAS or “forever chemicals.” These substances are used to make paper straws water-resistant but can persist in the environment and pose health risks. In contrast, IIT Roorkee’s millet-based straws are entirely biodegradable, chemical-free, and even edible, making them a groundbreaking innovation in the fight against single-use plastic pollution.

This innovation directly supports national missions such as “Swachh Bharat Abhiyan” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat”, aligning with the government’s efforts to minimize plastic waste and promote sustainable practices. Additionally, by incorporating barnyard millets, the initiative contributes to the “International Year of Millets 2023” campaign, which highlights the nutritional and environmental benefits of millets.

Prof. Kirtiraj K. Gaikwad explained, ” These millet straws are designed to decompose naturally, leaving no environmental footprint. Their chemical-free composition ensures safety for consumers, while their durability offers the same convenience as traditional straws. This innovation showcases IIT Roorkee’s commitment to practical, health-focused solutions for global challenges like plastic pollution.”

The millet-based straws developed by IIT Roorkee combine eco-friendliness, safety, durability, and nutritional value into a single innovative product. Being fully biodegradable, they leave no harmful residues, ensuring a cleaner environment. Unlike traditional straws, these are chemical-free and safe to consume, offering a unique edible alternative. Their durability matches that of conventional straws, maintaining structure even in liquids, while also being enriched with the health benefits of barnyard millets. This innovation not only promotes sustainability but also adds a nutritional edge, making it a game-changer in reducing single-use plastic waste.

The millet straws are durable enough to hold their structure in liquids while being enriched with the nutritional benefits of barnyard millets. Miss Tejaswini Dhanaji Patil shared, “Our aim was to create something that goes beyond just functionality. By integrating the richness of millets into the design, we’ve crafted a product that embodies the essence of sustainability and nutrition. This innovation redefines how everyday items can contribute to a healthier planet.”

Highlighting the significance of this achievement, Prof. Kamal Kishore Pant, Director of IIT Roorkee, remarked, “At IIT Roorkee, we strive to foster innovations that address critical global challenges while leveraging India’s rich heritage and resources. The millet-based straws developed by our researchers are a shining example of how modern science and traditional wisdom can come together to create impactful, eco-friendly solutions. This is not just a product; it is a step toward reducing plastic dependency and promoting a healthier, sustainable future.”

The millet-based edible straws signify a pivotal moment in reimagining single-use products. They reinforce IIT Roorkee’s legacy of transformative research that bridges technology, sustainability, and social impact.

This groundbreaking innovation sets a new standard for replacing single-use plastics while creating a ripple effect of positive change—from reducing environmental damage to empowering rural farming communities. As a small yet powerful step, these straws embody the institute’s mission to inspire individuals and industries alike to adopt sustainable practices for a cleaner, healthier planet.

With this development, IIT Roorkee once again demonstrates its role as a leader in research-driven solutions, paving the way for significant contributions to global environmental sustainability and public health. The millet-based straws are not just a product but a testament to how innovative thinking can inspire meaningful action toward a better tomorrow.